The best computer mouse: 4 pro options for designers

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Sure, you've got your laptop and monitor sorted. But what's the best mouse for designers and creatives? 

The humble mouse is probably one of the most important tools you use each day, so it's essential to find one that is both responsive and comfortable. We've spoken to many designers who still prefer to use a mouse when working on digital projects despite the continued improvement of tablets and styluses.

But there are thousands of variations of computer mouse out there – including trackpads – so how do you know you're using the right one? Here we list four of the best to help make your day more efficient.

01. Logitech MX Master

Logitech produces some of the most responsive mice on the market, which is pretty handy when you need a tool with precision. Its cordless MX Master model is designed to fit comfortably in your hand over a long period of time, and includes a super responsive scroll wheel that lets you browse web pages or documents at your own speed, depending on how fast you flick the wheel.

Buttons located on the side of the mouse also let you flit between windows without having to use the usual Alt+Tab, and can easily program your shortcuts. The only downside to the MX Master is the pretty hefty RRP price tag of around £80 – but there are great deals to be had.

Prefer a new model? The Logitech MX Master 2S Wireless Bluetooth Mouse works with Mac and Windows. It boasts high-precision tracking, a rechargeable battery (that lasts  long time between charges) and customisable buttons. 

02. Apple Magic Mouse 2

Apple was late to join the innovative mouse party then it created the Magic Mouse. Its replacement, the imaginitively-titles Magic Mouse 2, has a super light design and laser tracking capabilities which make it easy to flick between InDesign pages and make even the smallest changes on practically any surface.

However, the downside is that it’s perhaps a little too over-sensitive at times. The multi-touch area on the top of the mouse, which lets you scroll in any direction, can sometimes become frustrating when wanting to keep your finger in the same place for a long period of time. But for Magic Mouse evangelists, there is nothing to touch it.

Alternatively, a lot of designers prefer the Apple Magic Trackpad, which brings Force Touch pressure-sensitive technology (as seen in the screen of the Apple Watch) and the trackpad of the 2015 12-inch MacBook. Or for a cheaper option, try the older Apple Magic Trackpad. 

03. Anker Vertical Ergonomic Optical Mouse

Sure, the Anker Vertical Ergonomic Optical Mouse looks weird. It’s vertically aligned to encourage healthy neutral "handshake" wrist and arm. But once you get used to it, it’s a cheap and very comfortable way to avoid RSI. 

04. Razer Deathadder Chroma

Just like designers, gamers need a mouse that is sensitive and accurate, so it stands to reason that gaming mice are a good option for designers too. And the Razer range of gaming mice is one of the most responsive out there.

Razer mice have three types of sensors, dual, laser and optical, and its ergonomic shape is designed to support the flow of your hand. The Razer Deathadder mouse is the bestseller, as well as the cheapest, and features an optical sensor, rubber side grips and syncs all of your mouse settings stored in the Cloud.

Related articles:

• The best drawing tablet
• 5 best laptops for video editing
• The best monitor calibrators for designers

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